Distillery: Maker’s Mark
Proof: 101
Age: ~6 years
Mashbill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Price: ~$40
Company
Maker’s Mark is one of the most iconic bourbon brands out there. They’re known best for their red wax and quality bourbon that “won’t blow your ears off” (quote from founder, Bill Samuels, Sr).
Production
Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon made in batches of under 1,000 gallons (19 barrels). Barrels are rotated between the upper and lower levels of the rickhouse to even out the variations in temperature each barrel is exposed to. It’s really a sight that I recommend seeing if you ever have a chance to go to the distillery.
Maker’s 101 is basically the same as standard Maker’s but bottled at 101 proof rather than 90. This results in additional flair compared to the standard Maker’s expression.
Maker’s 101 Review: Flavor Profile
Nose
Much richer than regular Maker’s Mark with notes of deep caramel, citrus, licorice, and dark fruit. Lots of complimentary flavors going on that make you excited to take a sip.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Palate
Creamy and rich palate with heavy oak, slight baking spice, caramel, and cocoa. It’s definitely more pronounced than standard Maker’s, but it’s far less sweet than I anticipated.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 3.75/5 |
Finish
Medium length with notes of oak, baking spice, leather, and a touch of caramel. Again, much more dynamic than standard Maker’s.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 3.75/5 | 4/5 | 3.875/5 |
Value
Maker’s 101 is a solid value. For $40, you get a wheated bourbon with more character than you’d expect. The higher proof makes things more interesting while also keeping good balance.
I will say, though, this isn’t a bourbon that particularly stands out from the crowd. It’s kinda in a weird middle ground where I wouldn’t be mad to have a bottle but wouldn’t seek it out. I think if you’re looking for Maker’s on steriods, it’s worth it to spend the extra $10 on Maker’s Cask Strength.
But if you want a less sweet Maker’s with a tad more character, this might be the perfect one for you.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Maker’s 101 Review…The Verdict
Verdict – 3.91/5
We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.
Scoring System:
- Platinum – 4.25 – 5
- Gold – 3.25 – 4.24
- Silver – 2.75 – 3.24
- Bronze – <2.75
Hunter Branch is the Founder and Director of Editorial for Bourbon Inspector. He has been writing about and professionally reviewing bourbon since 2020 (and has been drinking it for much longer). He’s been able to interview big names in the bourbon industry like Trey Zoeller from Jefferson’s Bourbon and his work has been featured in publications like TastingTable, Mashed, and more.